Because of work and other responsibilities, many students are not able to take a full week to do a mission trip. But they can be on mission. Even an afternoon project can be a life changing experience in the life of a student. Here are five good ideas:
1. Serve a meal. Most larger towns and cities have several organizations that serve meals to the homeless or underpriviledged in their communities. They are usually well organized and welcome the help of a group to serve a meal.
2. Provide Free Lawn Service. Most likely there are some people in your church and community that are not able to take care of their lawns. Plan an afternoon to weed someone’s flowerbeds or plant some perennials for them to enjoy.
3. Have a Party. Host a block party in a local apartment complex complete with food, games for kids and some fun giveaways. Provide information about your church. Just be sure to work with the management and keep them informed of all of your plans.
4. Wash a load. Make a chore a little easier for someone. Collect quarters at your church, then take them to a local laundromat with whom you have made arrangements. Offer to pay for a load of wash for customers and provide some children’s activities while parents are busy doing the laundry.
5. Say thank you.Plan a special appreciation meal or gift to say thank you to the service staff at your local community campus. Let the custodial staff, grounds keepers, or food service staff know that you appreciate them.
Mission projects can be great opportunities for growth in the lives of students. As you plan, consider what impact each project might have on your group. You will have the joy of making a difference in the lives of those you serve and those you serve with.